These Are the Best Sneakers for Every Workout

Not all sneakers are created equal. To maximize your workouts, it's actually better to have shoes specifically designed with one activity in mind. This helps you perform better while working out, and it minimizes your chances of tearing your body in half. Here are 10 of the best.

AGILITY DRILLS

Your knees and ankles feel the brunt of agility drills, so you want a shoe that keeps everything aligned. Adidas's Crazy Train shoes are lightweight, and use a heel counter (that white part) to keep your foot stable while your body moves quickly during drills. 

Crazy Train Pro by Adidas, adidas.com

JUMP-HEAVY SETS

The flexibility and cushion of these Nikes will keep your ankles and knees protected from the landing on tough jumps.

Train Prime Iron Dual Fusion by Nike, nike.com

SPRINTS

For quick sprints, opt for something that won't weigh you down. New Balance and sock brand Stance created this crazy lightweight shoe, perfect for speedy moves. 

Fuelcore Sonic by New Balance x Stance, newbalance.com

LONG DISTANCE RUNS

If you're partial to long-distance runs, don't cheat your way out of a good sneaker. Asics—master brand of marathon sneakers—uses specific technologies for each part of the shoe (seriously, everything from the midsole foam to the heel clutching system) to make sure your foot stays stable throughout a long run.

Gel Kayano by Asics, asics.com

BOXING

York Athletics sneakers were designed to be in a ring, whether you're sparring or shadowboxing in your basement. They're light, durable, and the height will keep your ankle from rolling.

The Henry Mid by York Athletics, yorkathleticsmfg.com

HIIT

For HIIT workouts, you need a shoe with a versatile response. Nike's Metcon3 was designed for just that, using a flexible forefoot and textured rubber on the midfoot to give you great traction during ropes or wall exercises. 

Metcon3 by Nike, nike.com

CROSSFIT

Reebok has been dominating the Crossfit sneaker space, crafting shoes that enhance every piece of your WOD. They have a tight, barefoot feel—good for lifts—but aren't too stiff for suicides. 

Crossfit Nano by Reebok, reebok.com

SHORT RUNS

APLs are one of the sleekest sneakers out right now, and they're great for quick, neutral runs. 

Techloom by APL, athleticpropulsionlabs.com

CYCLING

If spinning is your game, it's worth investing in a pair of your own shoes. Shimano makes the sturdiest pair, with a closure system that will make your foot secure. They're both SPD and SPD-SL cleat compatible. 

Bike Shoes by Shimano, rei.com

LIFTING

Lifting heavy in a running shoe is a recipe for bad form—they're usually too supportive for something like a deadlift or power clean. Look for a shoe with minimal drop (from the front to back of your foot) to keep your form in check.

 

Adipower Weightlifting Shoes by Adidas, adidas.com

This story originally appeared on Esquire.com.

* Minor edits have been made by the Esquiremag.ph editors.